Douglas Franklin Tillett, 80

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Douglas Franklin Tillett, affectionately known as "Doug," who left us on Oct. 21, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Bozeman on April 4, 1944, to Theo A. Tillett and Corinne Wheeler Tillett, Doug embraced life with passion, adventure, and an unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community.  

His love for Montana was evident throughout his life. From his cherished roots in Bozeman to a life well-lived across Columbia Falls and Whitefish where his grandfather was one of the first dentists in Whitefish, Dr. Jesse A Tillett. He forged deep connections in his beloved state, many of which were in Bigfork where they resided for 25 years.   

A graduate of St. Ignatius High School in 1962 and a proud alumnus of Montana State University. Doug continued the family tradition by graduating with a degree in business administration in 1970, following in his mother’s footsteps who graduated 1939, and inspiring future generations to do the same. His legacy as a passionate Bobcat fan endured as his daughter Stacy carried on the Tillett family tradition, graduating in 1998 from MSU.  

A proud Vietnam veteran, Doug served his country with courage and honor, earning the Bronze Star for his bravery in the Tet Offensive. His time in the Army left a lasting imprint on his character, instilling a profound sense of duty, compassion, and resilience that touched every aspect of his life. As a tribute to his service to his country, Doug will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.  

Doug’s professional career in banking extended his impact on the community he loved. As a leader in Montana’s financial sector, Doug served in various roles, including chairman of the board of the Montana Chamber of Commerce, director of the Montana Bankers Association, and president of the Belgrade Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Financial Service Advocate of the Year by the Montana Small Business Association.  

Beyond his career, Doug was a man of diverse passions. An avid golfer, he enjoyed membership at both Riverside Country Club in Bozeman, where he was on the board as director and treasurer, and Eagle Bend Golf Club in Bigfork. Whether on the green or on his Harley Davidson, which took him on unforgettable journeys from Sturgis to the Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary in Milwaukee, Doug embodied a spirit of adventure. He was also a certified dive master, approaching scuba diving with the same enthusiasm he applied to all of life’s pursuits. 

Doug’s faith and commitment to service were reflected in his membership with the Grand Lodge of Montana Masons, which recognized his 50 years of dedicated service in 2022. He valued friendships deeply, and his kindness, humor, and integrity left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate to know him. 

Doug cherished his family above all. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, his children, Scott Tillett (Amber Tillett), Stacy Tillett Nybo (Garrett Nybo), and Scott Brodnax. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren, David Toman, Courtney Sandmeier, Kailey Nybo, Mackenzie Nybo, Ryann Brodnax and his great-grandson, Daxton Douglas Tillett. He is also survived by his sister, Cheryl Sue Tillett Crerar (Gary Crerar); his cousins, Tom Tillett (Katy Tillett) and Marcia Tillett; and a beloved group of nieces and nephews. 

As a father, brother, and husband Doug was a source of strength and guidance. He cherished his family deeply, nurturing those bonds of faith, kindness and loyalty. His strong faith in God, lead him through life, even until his final days.  

Doug, as a father, was passionate about his family. He was always present at any sporting event and even waking up early on Sunday mornings to help with their paper route. Known as "Poppi" to his grandchildren and great-grandson, Doug filled their lives with laughter, stories, and unforgettable memories. He was a mentor, a storyteller, and their biggest fan.  

As a husband, Doug shared a beautiful partnership with his wife Sharon, built on love, mutual respect, and unwavering support. Together, they created a home filled with warmth and laughter, a sanctuary for their family and friends.   

Doug’s legacy of love, courage, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and community will continue to inspire. He valued his friendships deeply, forging connections that lasted a lifetime. He will be profoundly missed, and his memory will forever live on in our hearts.  

A celebration of Doug’s life will be held on his birthday, April 4, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Eagle Bend Golf Club in Bigfork with a reception to follow at El Topo Cantina. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor a life lived with joy, purpose, and boundless passion. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Doug’s name to the charity of your choice.